Burley in Wharfedale murder: two people remain in custody after death in West Yorkshire village
Two people remain in custody as a murder probe following a death in a quiet village near Leeds continues.
Police were called after a man, 30, was found with stab wounds in Burley in Wharfedale on Sunday (March 1). He was discovered in the street at the junction of Main Street and Iron Row and taken to hospital, but later died from his injuries.
A murder investigation was subsequently launched. Police had initially arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder, but was then re-arrested on suspicion of murder.
A woman has also been arrested on suspicion of murder, West Yorkshire Police have said. Meanwhile a 22-year-old woman was arrested on conspiracy to murder, but has been bailed.
In an update, a spokesperson for the force said: “A man and woman arrested on suspicion of murder remain in custody.
“A 22 year old woman who was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder has been bailed pending further enquiries.”
A police cordon remained in place in Burley in Wharfedale on Monday (March 2) morning. One of our reporters visited the scene and was told by residents that incidents like this “never happen”.
Another resident, who lives just across the street, said: “A big shock. I was inside. We’ve frosted the windows for the dog, so I didn’t see it. When I came out, the incident had already happened.
“It’s a shock for this area. I understand that it didn’t originate from here, but it’s still a big shock for this area because it’s such a lovely place.”
Tom Clegg, another Main Street resident, was shocked to find his street cordoned off on Sunday evening.
He told the YEP: “I had to be escorted to the house, and police had to check I was an actual resident. It’s unusual, especially when it’s right outside your house. It’s shocking.”
Specially trained officers are working to support the victim’s family as enquires continue into the attack which is being treated as an isolated and targeted incident.
Previously, DCI Michael Cox of West Yorkshire Police, said: “Multiple police enquiries are ongoing today (March 1) into what has clearly been a very serious assault on a victim in Burley and Wharfedale.
“We realise this incident will cause concern locally, but I want to assure residents we do think this incident was isolated and targeted, and that we have all necessary resources in the area to investigate what took place.
“Police activity will continue at locations throughout the day, and we are appealing for witnesses.”